Should I Still Play? Musicians Navigate Trump's Takeover of the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center, a prestigious venue in Washington, D. C. , has a long history of honoring musicians, from rock legends to Latin stars. But things got complicated when Donald Trump took over and fired the board. Musicians booked to perform there now face a tough decision: should they still go on stage? Ben Folds was the first to speak up. He quit his job as artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra. He didn't want to be part of it anymore. Renée Fleming, a famous opera singer, and Shonda Rhimes, the creator of Grey’s Anatomy, also stepped down from their roles. They wanted to show support for their colleagues who lost their jobs. Issa Rae, a popular actress and writer, canceled her sold-out show. She said the Kennedy Center's values were being threatened. Low Cut Connie, a band, also pulled out. Their leader, Adam Weiner, said his friends would be hurt by the new policies. Some musicians, like Peter Wolf and Jonatha Brooke, haven't decided yet. Guster, a band, and Chris Pierce, a singer-songwriter, are still planning to perform. Pierce has a unique reason. He wants to honor his commitment and use his music to resist. Pierce thought about his parents, who faced racism when he was young. They didn't move away; they stayed and made a difference. He plans to play songs about important issues, like civil rights and racial injustice. He believes musicians can help heal divisions. Pierce respects those who choose not to perform. But he thinks musicians have a special chance to make a difference. He won't stay home; he'll use his music to speak out. The Kennedy Center has always been a place for artists of all kinds. Now, it's a place where musicians must decide if they want to be part of something that might not align with their values. It's a tough call, but it's also a chance for them to stand up for what they believe in.